Gamepad

Definition - What does Gamepad mean?

A gamepad, also sometimes called joypad, refers to an input device used for gaming purposes. It is a video game controller that can be held with both hands and has multiple buttons on it to be pressed by the thumbs. Gamepads were first introduced with gaming console systems as a peripheral device to connect the user with the system.

A gamepad is also known as a joypad.

Techopedia explains Gamepad

The gamepad was invented by Gunpei Yokoi and introduced by Nintendo in 1983 (and released in the U.S. in 1985), followed shortly afterward by Sega for their gaming systems. The gamepad quickly became popular among gamers. Over the years the designs of gamepads have evolved, but all have a similar input method and structure. A gamepad is used for playing video games of a number of types including role playing, shooting, puzzle, sports and others. Modern-day video game controllers are wireless, while most earlier models were designed with cords that connected them to the systems. Modern gamepads are generally lightweight with multiple buttons and input methods.